Botswana entry requirements for Sri Lanka passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed June 28, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Sri Lankan passport holders need an eVisa to enter Botswana in 2026. Apply online before you travel for a single-entry permit valid up to 30 days. Processing takes 5–10 business days, so submit your application at least two weeks before departure.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply online before travel | You need an eVisa to enter Botswana. Apply through the Botswana eServices portal at www.gov.bw/immigration. Processing takes 3–5 business days, and you must print the approval letter to show at immigration.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must have at least 6 months validity | Your Sri Lankan passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Botswana. Airlines check this at check-in, and immigration officers enforce it strictly. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration officers will ask for proof of a return or onward flight out of Botswana. Have a printed or digital copy of your ticket ready — they check this at the border. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Recommended to carry | Hotel bookings or a letter of invitation from your host can speed up the immigration process. Officers rarely ask, but having it ready avoids delays. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Recommended to carry | Carry bank statements or a credit card showing you can support yourself during your stay. Immigration may ask to see proof of sufficient funds, though it's not always checked. | Recommended |
Apply early — no visa on arrival
Sri Lankan passport holders cannot get a visa on arrival in Botswana. You must apply for an eVisa online before you travel. Processing takes 5–10 business days, so submit your application at least two weeks ahead. Airlines will check your eVisa approval before boarding.
Malaria risk in northern Botswana
If you're visiting the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, or other northern areas, malaria is a high risk. Take prophylaxis (consult your doctor), use mosquito repellent, and sleep under a net. In Gaborone and other southern areas, the risk is low.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the Botswana eServices portal (www.gov.bw/immigration). Fill in your personal details, passport info, and travel dates. Upload a scanned copy of your passport bio page and a passport-sized photo. Pay the ~$30 USD fee by credit card. You'll get a confirmation email. Processing takes 5–10 business days.
2
Print your eVisa approval letter
Once approved, you'll receive an email with the approval letter. Print it out and keep it with your passport. Also save a digital copy on your phone as backup.
3
Arrive at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) or Maun Airport (MUB)
At passport control, present your passport, eVisa approval letter, and return/onward ticket. The officer may ask for proof of accommodation and funds. Answer clearly. The process usually takes 5–10 minutes.
4
Receive entry stamp
The officer will stamp your passport with a 30-day entry permit. Check the stamp before leaving the counter — make sure the dates are correct. If you need more time, you can apply for an extension at the Department of Immigration in Gaborone, Francistown, or Maun.
Download Botswana Entry Checklist
PDF · Sri Lanka Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated June 28, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days, extendable up to 90 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost~$30 USD (approx. 5,400 BWP)
Standard option for tourism; extension possible at immigration office.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable
Validity6 months from issue
Cost~$50 USD (approx. 9,000 BWP)
Ideal for frequent travellers; each stay can be extended.
Business visa
Max stay30 days, extendable
Validity3 months from issue
Cost~$40 USD (approx. 7,200 BWP)
Requires invitation letter from Botswana company.
work visa
Work Permit
1 year, renewable
~$100 USD (approx. 18,000 BWP) application fee
For those with a job offer from a Botswana employer. Requires employer sponsorship and proof of qualifications.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of course, renewable
~$50 USD (approx. 9,000 BWP) application fee
For enrolment in a recognised educational institution in Botswana. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Permit
2 years, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. 36,000 BWP) application fee
For individuals investing a minimum of $100,000 USD in Botswana. Requires business plan and proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for Sri Lanka passport holders. Payable online. | ~$30 USD (approx. 30 USD) |
| Overstay fine per dayCharged for each day overstayed. Maximum cap may apply. | ~$10 USD per day (approx. 10 USD) |
| Stay extension (if applicable)Extension fee for additional stay beyond eVisa validity. Subject to approval. | ~$50 USD (approx. 50 USD) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Botswana
No transit visa needed
Sri Lanka passport holders transiting through Botswana do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Transit hubsSir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) · Maun Airport (MUB)
Health & vaccines for Botswana
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present in northern Botswana, including Okavango Delta and Chobe; prophylaxis recommended.
Dengue feverModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks, especially in urban areas; use mosquito repellent.
SchistosomiasisModerate risk
Risk from swimming in freshwater lakes and rivers; avoid contact with untreated water.
Malaria risk: high
High risk in northern regions (Okavango Delta, Chobe, Ngamiland); prophylaxis recommended for all travellers to these areas.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Gaborone
Department of Immigration and Citizenship
Plot 54352, New CBD, Gaborone
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Main office for visa extensions and permits; bring passport, photos, and fee.
Francistown
Francistown Immigration Office
Plot 123, Independence Avenue, Francistown
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Regional office for northern Botswana; less crowded than Gaborone.
Practical information for LK travellers
Country basics
CapitalGaborone
LanguageEnglish, Setswana
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 90 days; an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyBotswana pula (BWP)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 14.32 BWP
Time zone
Local timeUTC+2
vs New York+7h
vs Los Angeles+10h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
D,GType D (3-pin round) and Type G (3-pin rectangular) plugs.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is generally chlorinated and safe in major cities, but avoid in rural areas.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
No. Sri Lankan passport holders must obtain an eVisa before travel. There is no visa-on-arrival option. Apply online at www.gov.bw/immigration at least two weeks before your trip.
The standard single-entry eVisa costs ~$30 USD (approx. 9,000 LKR). A multiple-entry eVisa costs ~$60 USD (approx. 18,000 LKR). Payment is made online by credit card during the application process.
Processing takes 5–10 business days. Submit your application at least two weeks before departure to avoid delays. In peak travel seasons, it may take longer.
Yes. You can apply for an extension at the Department of Immigration and Citizenship in Gaborone, or at regional offices in Francistown or Maun. Extensions cost ~$50 USD per month and can extend your stay up to 90 days total. Bring your passport, two passport photos, and the extension fee.
Overstaying costs ~$10 USD per day, with a maximum fine of $500 USD. It's best to apply for an extension before your visa expires. Overstaying can also affect future visa applications.
Yellow fever vaccination is required only if you are arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk. If you're flying directly from Sri Lanka, you don't need it. However, if you've recently been in a yellow fever endemic country, you'll need to show the vaccination certificate.
Botswana is generally safe for tourists. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in cities, especially at night. In wildlife areas, follow park rules and never approach animals. Medical facilities in Gaborone and Francistown are adequate, but serious conditions may require evacuation to South Africa — travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is strongly recommended.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on June 28, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.